Tigers legend Benny Elias has slammed the critics of incoming recruits Api Koroisau and Isaiah Papali’i, defending the duo’s behaviour after the grand final.
A weathered Koroisau addressed a crowd of Panthers fans on Monday about what the premiership meant to him, eventually sarcastically adding that he would have similar succes with the Tigers.
“Just to go out on a high like that — it’s pretty incredible,” Koroisau said
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Papali’i ‘all in’ on joining Tigers | 00:42
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“And we’ll probably do the same thing at the Tigers,” he added before bursting out laughing.
Papali’i, meanwhile, was asked on the Dally M carpet to blink twice if he was heading to the Tigers.
In response the Kiwis forward kept his eyes open as wide as possible.
The comments have not escaped our attention of course,” Tigers chairman Lee Hagipantelis said on SEN 1170 Breakfast on Tuesday.
“I suspect that this will be the first subject of conversation this morning.
“Last night, our CEO Justin Pascoe and I both reached out to Api’s manager. The matter has been dealt with and dealt with privately.
Elias, however, said the pair should be welcomed with open arms.
“They’ve got every right to say what they want … they’ve got a job to do, they’re going to get paid very well and I’m sure that they’re very much looking forward to turning the club around,” Elias told the Wide World of Sports.
Papali’i ‘all in’ on joining Tigers | 00:42
“Having (Koroisau) come to our club — I think it’s very fortunate. You listen to people who play State of Origin, you listen to people who win premierships — and maybe we do need a bit of tongue in cheek and colourful comments like he’s made.
“I haven’t got a problem with either. These guys are professional … we’ve got the best No.9 and the best second-rower coming to our club.
“Their jibes — that doesn’t bother me at all. What worries me is their attitude on the football paddock, their preparation, encouraging the young kids around them and making our club a better club … if you know the people, I know the kids, the kids are good kids.
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Tigers deal with Koroisau’s comments | 02:08
“If you know them, you’ll understand they’re tongue-in-cheek comments.”
Koroisau is set to join the Leichhardt based side on a two-year deal, while Papali’i’s contract will see him at the Tigers for three years.
“I actually support those players,” Elias said.
“I totally support them and I totally understand it. And as a Tigers fanatic, tragic, me, I welcome those two blokes to the club with open arms and in anticipation … that they do have the right attitude and may smarten up a few of the players.”
